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Interview with Ryan J. Cunningham, Author of Gary’s Gray World

Born in Springfield, Massachusetts in 1972, Ryan J. Cunningham discovered his passion for writing poetry and children’s stories at an early age. Throughout his high school and college years, he took writing courses to enhance his writing abilities. Ryan became a member of the SCBWI (Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators.) He published two inspirational books of poems titled “Angels Near and Far” and “Hearts, Hopes, and Halos.” His poetry and stories have been published in anthologies and magazines. Ryan presently resides in Coos Bay, Oregon where he spends his time hiking the trails, spending quality time with family, and working on his personal web site, (http://imagination-inspiration.webs.com) to share his poems and stories with the world.

Thank you for joining us today, Ryan. Can you please start off by telling us a bit about yourself?

I was born in Massachusetts and discovered a passion for writing poetry and children’s stories at an early age. In high school and college I took writing courses to enhance my abilities. I currently live in Oregon, where I like to hike the trails, spend time with my family, and share my poems and stories with the world via my web site.

When did you first get bit by the writing bug?

In high school I took creative writing classes and enjoyed writing poetry and short stories from my imagination and own experiences and realized I had a passion for writing.

Why did you decide to write stories for children?

I want to reach out to children and help them grow from sharing my knowledge and experiences while growing up. I want to give them a positive hopeful way to look at life through my stories.

Do you believe it is harder to write books for a younger audience?

I believe it is harder to write about topics children can relate to and still keep them interested in the story.

What is your favorite part of writing for young people?

I enjoy creating fun characters that children can relate to in their every day lives.

Can you tell us what your latest book is all about?

The title is Gary’s Gray World. When Gary’s father is too busy to play, a scary moment at the baseball field brings his dad rushing to the park to rescue him. But instead the two discover that making time for each other is the most important thing in a father and son relationship.

What inspired you to write it?

We all can become so wrapped up in our everyday business that we neglect our kids from time to time. Personally, I feel every children’s story should make a statement since our little ones absorb so much that generates what kind of person they will be as an adult before they are even six years old!

My next children’s story, Bear Trouble, is approximately 650 words and for children 4-8 years old. Two mischievous bear cubs wander off from their den without their mother’s permission. While searching for food, they come across a housing development. After scrounging for food in the trashcans against a house, they climb through an open window of the house. They find a bathtub full of soapy water and start playing around and making a mess of the bathroom. Mother Bear finds them and punishes them for disobeying her rules.

Do you have anything else to add?

I am grateful that I was given the gift and ability to write poetry and stories. I want to bring hope and inspiration to people who read them.

Thank you for spending time with us today, Ryan. We wish you much success.